First period flash secures the win

Chris McSorley saw a fine start to the Spengler Cup this year as his men handed him a 3:2 opening win in their quest to defend the title. The current holders of one of the most prestigious tournaments in hockey worldwide came in strong scoring three times in the first period.

Timothy Kast and Taylor Pyatt exchanged points on the first two scores of the game. Kast scored just 5:48 into the game on the powerplay with both Pyatts (Tom and Taylor) assisting for the Servette lead. Taylor Pyatt doubled at 13:59 before Inti Pestoni was able to rack up an even-strength goal late in the period.

Christophe Bays started in net for Servette but was forced out when he got a blast to the helmet and fell onto the ice. He was taken off the ice, seemingly dizzy which points to concussion. He had made 18 saves in 42:09 in play, allowing two scores.

Janick Schwendener came in to replace him, deflecting all the remaining shots until the end of the game.

Anton Slepyshev put the KHL side on the board at 31:31 on a solo-effort, while Ilkka Heikkinen was able to assure the game had a close finish when a powerplay goal went in at 34:14.

Servette went 2 for 2 on the powerplay, while Salavat had scored once on five opportunities.

The second game of the day starts at 20:00 CET with Davos taking on Team Canada.

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